take19 - TAKEN!!!

We all need a helping hand now and then. But when Sue votes to cut $12 billion from federal student loan programs -- as she's done three separate times -- and then makes a big show out of finding $1.14 million to help the Dutchess County Airport, it makes us wonder about Sue's real priorities.

Granted, she needs to show that she's doing something for the district, which is why her office keeps putting out these silly press releases talking about all of the money she's bringing home. (We're still waiting for the release where she touts her misguided budget votes or any of the other votes she's taken with indicted former House Leader Tom DeLay). But since Dutchess County Airport lost its last commercial carrier five years ago, it's not really clear who Sue's money is benefiting. After all, as this story notes, the airport's main purpose is to provide helicopter flights to "the rich and famous".

So while we're all for bringing money back to the district, it would be nice if it could help people who actually need the help. We're quite sure that without much effort, Sue could find some needy students who can no longer afford their college tuition, thanks to her votes. Of course, that would mean she'd have to own up to her vote. Issuing press releases is obviously much easier.